The story of
Porsche dates back to long before the establishment
of the marque,
Dr. Ferdinand Porsche playing
pivotal roles in so many illustrious marques,
such as Volkswagen, Austro-Daimler, Steyr and even
Cistalia (the French authorities freeing him after
the war with the Italian manufacturer paid them
a million francs so that they could secure his
services to design a new Grand Prix car). But
the best was always the one that bore his name,
and we think very few would disagree.
The first
iterations were based largely on the pre-war
Volkswagens, being a rear engined two seater
powered by a mildly tuned 69ci 1131cc VW flat
four engine. Production commenced I 1948, but
it was when manufacture was switched back to
Porsche’s original
Stuttgart base in 1950 that things really took off.
In 1951 output was 500 cars, and by 1956 the number
had grown to 10,000. The cars were nearly always successful
in any competition they entered, even in their debut
at Le Mans – a feat they would mimic 12 times
by 1987!
Ferry Porsche assumed control of the company
following the death of his father in 1952, and under
his guidance the 356 acquired bigger engines and more
power. By the mid 1950’s exports began to the
US, were there was an almost insatiable appetite for
anything Porsche. The 356 was replaced by the 911 in
1964, arguably the most famous of and recognisable
of any sports car. The 911, along with the company,
would continue to move upmarket – and they
represent one of the most sought after and collectible
classics to this day. Also see:
Porsche Heritage.
